Do Minors Need a Fishing License in Virginia in 2024?

As the summer of 2024 approaches, many families in Virginia are looking forward to enjoying a day of fishing together. However, before heading out to the nearest lake, river, or stream, it’s important to understand the fishing license requirements for minors in the state. In this article, we’ll explore the regulations and exceptions related to fishing licenses for minors in Virginia.

Fishing License Requirements for Minors in Virginia

According to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR), the fishing license requirements for minors vary depending on their age and residency status.

For residents of Virginia:

• Minors under the age of 16 do not need a fishing license to fish in Virginia.
• Minors under the age of 16 also do not need a trout license when fishing in designated stocked trout waters.

For nonresidents of Virginia:

• Nonresident children under the age of 16 are not required to have a freshwater fishing or trout license in Virginia.

Exceptions to Fishing License Requirements

There are several exceptions to the fishing license requirements in Virginia, including:

• Resident or nonresident landowners, their spouses, children, grandchildren, and the spouses of such children and grandchildren, or the landowner’s parents, resident or nonresident, do not need a license to fish within the boundaries of their own lands and inland waters.
• Tenants, on the land they rent and occupy, are not required to have a license, but must have the written permission of the landowner.
• Guests fishing in individually owned private ponds.
• Legally blind persons.
• Any Indian who “habitually” resides on an Indian reservation or a member of the Virginia-recognized tribes who resides in the Commonwealth is not required to have a freshwater license, but must have proper identification.

It’s important to note that while minors under the age of 16 may not need a fishing license, they are still subject to all other fishing regulations and restrictions in Virginia.

Additional Fishing License Information

In addition to the basic fishing license requirements, there are several other permits and licenses that anglers may need when fishing in Virginia:

• A National Forest Permit is required for fishing on National Forest lands, with some exceptions for minors and seniors.
• A State Forest Use Permit is required for hunting, trapping, fishing, mountain biking, and horse riding on state forests.
• An Access Permit is required when using any DWR-owned or managed facility or boating access site, with some exceptions.
• A County Dip permit is required to take shad, herring, or mullet.

It’s always a good idea to check the current fishing regulations and license requirements before heading out to fish in Virginia, as they may change from year to year.

In conclusion, while minors under the age of 16 generally do not need a fishing license in Virginia, it’s important to be aware of the specific regulations and exceptions that apply. By understanding the licensing requirements and following all other fishing regulations, anglers of all ages can enjoy a safe and legal day of fishing in the beautiful state of Virginia.